by RITASHAPE Maternity Experts
Whether you're preparing for baby’s arrival or already in the early weeks of motherhood, one thing’s for sure—a well-fitting nursing bra is essential. It’s not just about comfort. The right nursing bra can help with posture, ease feeding, and support your changing body as your breasts grow, shift, and settle.
But how do you know what size to get, especially when your body’s changing daily?
We’re here to help you figure it out. Here’s everything UK mums need to know to choose the perfect nursing bra size.
🍼 Why Nursing Bra Sizing Matters
Nursing bras aren’t just regular bras with clips. They’re specially designed to:
✅ Support heavier, fuller breasts
✅ Prevent blocked ducts and discomfort
✅ Provide easy, one-handed feeding access
✅ Grow with you (yes, some styles stretch as your milk comes in!)
Wearing the wrong size? That can lead to soreness, back pain, and even reduced milk flow. Let’s avoid that.
👙 When to Buy a Nursing Bra
We recommend buying your first nursing bras around week 36 of pregnancy. Why?
💡 By this point, your ribcage and breast size will have mostly stabilised.
💡 It gives you time to try, adjust, and feel comfortable before baby arrives.
💡 You’ll likely need at least two to rotate (and wash)!
📏 How to Measure for a Nursing Bra (At Home – UK Method)
Grab a soft tape measure and wear a non-padded bra. Here’s what to do:
1. Measure your band size (underbust)
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Wrap the tape firmly under your bust.
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Round to the nearest whole number.
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If it’s an even number, add 4. If it’s odd, add 5.
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Example: 31" → 31 + 5 = 36 → your band size = 36
2. Measure your bust size (fullest part)
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Wrap the tape across the fullest part of your breasts.
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Keep it level and not too tight.
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Round to the nearest inch.
3. Calculate your cup size
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Subtract your band measurement from your bust measurement.
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The difference = your cup.
| Difference (inches) | Cup size |
|---|---|
| 1" | A |
| 2" | B |
| 3" | C |
| 4" | D |
| 5" | DD |
| 6" | E |
Example: Bust 39" – Band 36" = 3 → 36C
🤱 Top Tips for Finding the Perfect Fit
✅ Try on when your breasts are full – this shows the maximum size you’ll need.
✅ Look for stretchy cups – especially for the early weeks when you’re still regulating.
✅ Avoid underwire at first – it can dig into sensitive tissue. (Try RITASHAPE’s wire-free collection!)
✅ Always check the straps – they should support, not dig in.
✅ Make sure clips open one-handed – for quick feeds even when you’re half asleep.
👗 Our Favourite RITASHAPE Nursing Bras (Customer Faves!)
💗 Comfort Nursing Bra – No Wire, All-Day Support
Breathable cotton blend, wide band, gentle on sore nipples. Perfect for sleeping too.
💗 Stretch & Grow Maternity Bra
Expands with you through pregnancy and postpartum. Available in sizes up to 40E.
💗 Lace Nursing Bra – Beauty Meets Function
For mums who want to feel confident and elegant. Discreet clips + gorgeous detail.
💗 Seamless T-Shirt Nursing Bra
Invisible under clothes, comfy enough to wear all day—even to Tesco or nursery drop-off.
🛍 Ready to Find Yours?
Choosing the right size makes a huge difference—not just in comfort, but in confidence. At RITASHAPE, we design shapewear and maternity wear for real UK mums. No digging, no pinching, just smooth support when you need it most.
➡️ Shop our Nursing Bra Collection Now at RITASHAPE.COM
✅ UK Sizes | ✅ Fast Dispatch | ✅ Soft, Baby-Safe Fabrics
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